CARICOM Leaders to Meet Virtually Prior to Rubio’s Upcoming Visit to Jamaica

CARICOM leaders will hold a virtual meeting on Friday prior to Marco Rubio’s visit to Jamaica. Key topics include the crises in Haiti and the Guyana-Venezuela border situation, alongside initiatives such as a regional debt swap. Leaders are also expected to discuss the implications of U.S. policies regarding Cuba’s health program, revealing diverse perspectives among member states.

Leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are set to convene virtually on Friday, preceding the arrival of United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jamaica the following Wednesday. Prime Minister Stuart Young of Trinidad and Tobago disclosed his discussions with CARICOM Chair Mia Mottley, emphasizing Trinidad and Tobago’s strong support for CARICOM’s initiatives.

During the upcoming meeting, CARICOM leaders will address a range of agenda items, notably the worsening situation in Haiti, where criminal gangs threaten to destabilize the government and elections scheduled for November. Additionally, leaders will discuss the ongoing Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, following recent talks between Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and both Presidents Irfaan Ali and Nicolas Maduro amidst rising tensions over the Essequibo region.

Prime Minister Gonsalves is acting as an intermediary under the Argyle Agreement from December 2023. He warned that escalations could have dire economic and social repercussions for both nations and the broader Latin America and Caribbean region, urging both countries to settle their differences peacefully to maintain stability.

Furthermore, the leaders will explore the concept of a regional debt swap and assess the implications of United States charges against Chinese-built vessels destined for American ports. This dialogue precedes Rubio’s visit to the Caribbean, intended to enhance discussions on various pressing issues affecting CARICOM and U.S. relations.

Rubio’s visit comes after the U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America and the Caribbean consulted Caribbean representatives in Washington. Among the topics to be addressed are the U.S. stance on the Cuban health brigade, energy development, and Haiti’s security situation. Notably, not all regional leaders are anticipated to be present for the talks in Kingston.

CARICOM countries have publicly supported the Cuban health initiative, attributing substantial benefits to their regions. Despite Rubio’s announcement to expand visa restrictions relating to Cuba’s labor export program, several CARICOM leaders, including Prime Minister Mottley and Gonsalves, have indicated a willingness to sacrifice their U.S. visas in favor of the Cuban health brigade, which they argue has significantly benefitted their nations.

In summary, the upcoming CARICOM leaders’ meeting is poised to tackle critical regional issues, including the situation in Haiti, the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute, and economic initiatives such as a regional debt swap. With Secretary of State Rubio’s visit on the horizon, discussions will likely focus on strengthening CARICOM’s relationship with the United States while addressing the implications of U.S. policy changes. The dialogue surrounding the Cuban health program reflects the commitment of CARICOM leaders to prioritize regional health benefits despite external pressures.

Original Source: barbadostoday.bb